The most recent escalation began when Riley Gaines, known for her vocal opposition to transgender inclusion in women’s sports, publicly criticized Griner’s decision to kneel during the national anthem. Speaking in a recent interview, Gaines remarked:

“You need to show respect for the country that saved you from the Russian gulag.”

Her comments referenced Griner’s 2022 detainment in Russia and the high-profile diplomatic efforts that led to her release—a moment that briefly united Americans across the political spectrum.

Gaines’s statement quickly gained traction online, tapping into a broader sentiment among critics who see Griner’s protest during the anthem as disrespectful, especially given the international effort made to secure her freedom.

While no official announcement has been made, multiple sources familiar with Nike’s endorsement operations say internal discussions are underway regarding the future of Griner’s partnership.

“There’s no final decision yet,” said a source close to the brand. “But it’s fair to say there’s concern over how her activism is being perceived—especially in contrast to athletes like Gaines.”

Nike has long walked a fine line in supporting social justice causes while preserving its global market appeal. Its endorsement of former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick in 2018 was praised as bold by some and condemned as divisive by others. The company stood firm, embracing its brand identity as one that “believes in something, even if it means sacrificing everything.

But now, the cultural landscape has shifted again. And the debate over athlete activism is no longer hypothetical—it’s here, it’s loud, and it’s polarizing.

The contrast between Griner and Gaines is striking.

Griner, a veteran WNBA center and Olympic gold medalist, has made social activism central to her public persona—speaking out on racial injustice, LGBTQ+ rights, and political issues. Her choice to kneel during the national anthem aligns with that identity, though it has consistently drawn criticism from conservative commentators and some sports fans.

Gaines, by contrast, has positioned herself as a protector of “traditional sports values.” She rose to national prominence by challenging the inclusion of transgender women in female athletic competitions and has since become a frequent guest on cable news and conservative platforms. For her supporters, she represents discipline, patriotism, and a belief that sports should remain “above politics.”

One viral comment on X (formerly Twitter) summed up the sentiment driving Nike’s current headache:

“We need more athletes like Riley Gaines and fewer like woke Brittney Griner.”